Question

what is the predicted bond angle for so₂?

180°

< 109.5°

120°

< 120°

Explanation:

• First, determine the electron - pair geometry of \(SO_2\). The central sulfur atom has \(3\) electron pairs ( \(2\) bonding pairs and \(1\) lone pair) according to the valence - shell electron - pair repulsion (VSEPR) theory. The electron - pair geometry is trigonal planar.
• However, the presence of a lone pair causes greater repulsion. In a trigonal planar electron - pair geometry without lone pairs, the bond angle is \(120^{\circ}\). But the lone pair - bond pair repulsion is stronger than bond pair - bond pair repulsion. So the bond angle in \(SO_2\) is less than \(120^{\circ}\).

Answer:

\(< 120^{\circ}\)